how do I reformat a Dell Inspiron 1018 netbook without a disc

[rozebud]

I have Dell Inspiron 1018 netbook that I would like to give away, but I want to reset it to the factory settings before doing so. I had searched for the answer, but have not found one that will work without a CD. When I press F8 on start up, I get the "repair your computer" option, but when that is pressed I get the following message:" Windows failed to start. a recent hardware or software change might be the cause. To fix the problem:
1. Insert your window installation disc and restart....I don't have a disc, no optical drive on the netbook.
2. Choose your language......
3. Click repair your computer
If you do not have this disc, contact your system admin, or computer manufacturer for assistance
Status: 0xc000000e
Info: the boot selection failed because a required device is inaccessible.

Can you help me with this?

 

[ShrikanthAtDell]

Hello rozebud,

My name is Shrikanth and I work for the Social Media and Community Team at Dell. The image seems to be corrupt hence you are not able to restore back to factory. You will have to reinstall the operating system using a USB key or external optical drive.


Thanks and regards
Shrikanth G
Social Media and Community Professional
Order Status : http://dell.to/1mpzOt7
Download Drivers : http://dell.to/1pkzznO

 

[rozebud]

How do I obtain a USB key to reinstall the operating system? I do not have an external optical drive.

Hello rozebud,

My name is Shrikanth and I work for the Social Media and Community Team at Dell. The image seems to be corrupt hence you are not able to restore back to factory. You will have to reinstall the operating system using a USB key or external optical drive.


Thanks and regards
Shrikanth G
Social Media and Community Professional
Order Status : http://dell.to/1mpzOt7
Download Drivers : http://dell.to/1pkzznO

 

[USAFRet]

How do I obtain a USB key to reinstall the operating system? I do not have an external optical drive.

You will have to buy the relevant Factory Restore image from Dell. This will probably be on DVD. In which case, you use another PC to get that install onto a USB stick.

It may possible be obtained as an ISO file, which you can use on your current machine do create that USB install media.

The first thing, though, is to contact Dell and see how much it costs and what they can deliver.